BMW is set to commence production of a hydrogen car by 2028. The German auto manufacturer plans to partner with Japanese automotive giant Toyota to develop a fuel cell system, according to a joint press statement released on Thursday.
BMW and Toyota have formalised an agreement to establish a hydrogen-focused company, working together to develop fuel cell systems and enhance related infrastructure.
Their third-generation fuel cell system will be incorporated into both brands’ models. Both brands also strive to create synergies and curb costs via joint development and supply initiatives.
BMW CEO Oliver Zipse describes it as a “significant milestone in the history of the automotive industry”, foretelling a surge in demand for fuel cell electric vehicles.
Toyota’s CEO Koji Sato was enthusiastic about the cooperation entering a new phase, saying, “We will accelerate our efforts with BMW and partners from various sectors to propose a future where hydrogen energy sustains society.”
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As raw materials for batteries grow scarce and charging infrastructure for electric cars remains inadequate, BMW doesn’t want to place all its bets in one area. Zipse believes that hydrogen-fuelled electric cars are the perfect complement to battery-powered vehicles.
Hydrogen cars only emit water vapour. Powered by green hydrogen, these vehicles are as environmentally friendly as their battery equivalents. Additionally, hydrogen-powered cars have the advantage of covering long distances without needing lengthy recharge periods.
While the use of hydrogen as fuel is gaining traction, it raises several questions, particularly relating to the amount of energy needed for production.
